Wildlife breeding on the cards for K-P

PESHAWAR: The wildlife department has proposed legislation to allow rearing native and as yet undetermined wildlife species in farms in the province. If implemented, the move is meant to encourage breeding and protect species from going extinct.

Talking to The Express Tribune, Divisional Wildlife Officer Muhammad Niaz says the farming of species is possible under the recently passed Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife and Biodiversity (Protection, Preservation, Conservation and Management) Act, 2015. He adds that was why officials were actively considering legislation to regulate the process.

“Animal farming in the province will have a very positive impact,” Niaz says. The official states it will be decided which species will be included in the list and the department will also provide animals to the farm owners for breeding.

“If handled correctly, it will have a great impact on wildlife, but farmers will have to get a licence from the department,” he adds. The official reveals law has been proposed to allow these farmers to exchange animals with each other for breeding.

“The public will be able to buy these animals from the farms and keep them as pets at homes.” Niaz believes this will nurture love for wild animals among the public which is generally apathetic towards most animals.

He says the farming of some species was already taking place and new legislation would help regulate it. “Rules and regulations have been proposed. These will be sent for final approval, vetting and then be implemented. It is a part of what is allowed in the newly passed wildlife act,” he explains.